Blog Category:

Money

Scams May Change, But Some Things Remain the Same

January 26th, 2012 by Susan Grant, Director of Consumer Protection, Consumer Federation of America

Scammers are constantly experimenting with new ways to get consumers’ hard-earned money. The stories vary, but two things remain consistent: 1) You’re asked to send money or provide your bank account information and 2) Rather than giving you money these crooks set their sights on stealing it from you. Continue reading

Zappos Customer? Take These Steps to Reduce the Risk of Identity Theft.

January 18th, 2012 by Nicole via OnGuard Online.gov

In light of Zappos’ recent announcement that its database was hacked, OnGuardOnline.gov offers the following tips to help you reduce your risk of identity theft: Continue reading

Overpriced Prescriptions

January 12th, 2012 by Amy

Paying for medications can be a struggle. So for some seniors and people with disabilities, the prospect of money back in their pockets might be welcome news. Continue reading

Resolve to be an Informed Consumer

December 30th, 2011 by Lisa

As you jot down your list of resolutions for 2012, why not consider a few to help you become more empowered in the marketplace? Continue reading

Payday Mayday: Seek Alternatives to Costly Loans that Can Sink You

December 19th, 2011 by Lisa

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency, wants consumers to consider the costly consequences payday loans create — and to think about these alternatives to these loans Continue reading

Is Losing Weight Really this Easy?

December 9th, 2011 by Amy

It’s some pitch — lose lots of weight quickly with products you can try for free. Even better — the products seem to be endorsed by trusted news sites, and satisfied “reporters” attest to all the unwanted pounds they’ve dropped. … Continue reading

Over the River and Through the Woods

November 22nd, 2011 by Aditi

We all know to wear loose pants to a holiday dinner, to avoid sitting next to that nosy aunt, and to make time for a nap after scarfing down that enormous meal. Here are some other helpful tips to keep in mind while visiting with your family during the holidays. Continue reading

When You Need a Locksmith, Trustworthiness is Key

November 21st, 2011 by Lisa

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, has tips for you to consider if ever you need a locksmith. Continue reading

Thinking about Layaway? Know the Fees Before You Shop

November 17th, 2011 by Lisa

As Black Friday draws near, thoughts turn to holiday shopping, and how to get the items you want for a price you can afford. If you choose to buy using layaway, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, has a few holiday tips for you. Continue reading

Tell the Student in Your Life: “Don’t Get Scammed on Your Way to College”

November 2nd, 2011 by Lisa

Whether you are an educator, a parent, or just someone who knows and cares someone looking for a scholarship, keep them safe from scammers by giving them “Don’t Get Scammed on Your Way to College,” available for download at www.studentaid.ed.gov/pubs. Continue reading

A Gift-Giver’s Guide to Shopping Online

November 1st, 2011 by Amy

No need to wait for the turkey to be polished off – or the football games to be over – to start shopping online for the best holiday gifts. Take a few minutes before Thanksgiving to check out OnGuardOnline.gov’s tips for comparing products online and staying secure through checkout. Continue reading

Digging for Details Before Investing in Gold Bullion or Coins

October 28th, 2011 by Colleen

If you want to diversify your investment portfolio, you may think gold is the answer. It can help hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty. But before you buy any investment, it’s best to take some time, ask some questions, and get answers. Continue reading

Facing Debt Collection? You Have Rights.

October 28th, 2011 by Lisa

You have the right to be treated fairly by debt collectors. Under federal law, they can’t use abusive, unfair or deceptive practices to collect from you. Continue reading

Who is responsible for paying the debts of a deceased relative?

October 20th, 2011 by Colleen

When a relative dies, the last thing you need is a call from a debt collector asking you to pay your loved one’s debts. Truth is, family members typically aren’t obligated to pay those debts from their own assets. Continue reading

Fake Government Grants: Your Money…for Absolutely Nothing

October 7th, 2011 by Lisa

Con artists hawking phony government grants use all sorts of tricks to bait you – from advertising “free grants” in the classifieds, to calling you and insisting that you’ve won government money for, say, filing your taxes on time. Continue reading

Getting fit without fitness? Fat chance.

September 28th, 2011 by Cheryl

While the benefits of exercise are well documented, that’s not always the case with advertising claims for work-out gear and exercise equipment. Continue reading

Saying Yes to Your Dress?

September 13th, 2011 by Amy

If you decide to sell a wedding dress online, the FTC wants you to know scammers are looking to rip off former brides in check overpayment scams. Continue reading

“Will that be Brand or Generic?” Pondering Your Prescription Preference

August 31st, 2011 by Lisa

For many, paying for prescription drugs can be challenging – even if you have insurance that covers part of the costs…If you’re thinking about switching to a generic drug, check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if this is an option for you. Continue reading

Watch Your Finances (and Watch Out for Scams) as Hurricane Irene Approaches

August 26th, 2011 by Lisa

As Hurricane Irene approaches the East Coast, the Federal Trade Commission reminds consumers that it’s important to be financially ready for a weather emergency. Continue reading

Getting Real Debt Help

August 25th, 2011 by Susan Grant, Director of Consumer Protection, Consumer Federation of America

In this tough economy, many people are struggling with their debts. Ads from companies offering to help may be tempting, but beware – this could be a trap that will leave you worse off than before. Continue reading